- Identify your target audience. With whom do you want to communicate? Teenagers? Parents? Grandparents? Business owners? Community investors?
- Choose your social media outlet. Once you know your audience, choose the medium that group is participating in and which media will give you the greatest reach or “bang for your buck.”
- Interaction is key. Social media is not a one-way conversation. Traditional marketing methods don’t allow dialogue with your audience.
- Listen to the feedback. You can’t change opinions or respond to complaints/concerns if you don’t know about them. Many times others will answer questions or defend the cause without your involvement.
- Make a commitment. Social media is a marathon and not a sprint. Stay in it for the long haul.
- Be timely in your response. Think of it like you do when you call your cell phone, electric or cable provider. Don’t keep your “friends” on hold.
- Be real and avoid being a robot. People want to connect with you. They want to relate to you. It’s okay to show them you care. We are, after all, working with their kids.
- Be creative in your communication. Find a unique twist to talk about your school, classes and more. People want to know what’s happening while they’re at school, how you are improving their lifestyle and learning experience. It’s about the benefits and not the features.
- Don’t be afraid to brag. Celebrate students. Share their stories and activities — plays, athletic events, scholastic meets, etc. Tell how students and staff are involved in the community and give back. Recognize your staff for their efforts.
- Have fun! The more fun you have with social media the more likely you will find others getting involved.
